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Hereditary Skin Disorders

The skin is the largest organ in the body and arguably the toughest, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t take a few hits. Even with good upkeep, your skin can still experiences an array of issues, some of which can’t be prevented because they’re inherited. You don’t get to pick your family, and sometimes you don’t get to pick your skin disorder. Psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and even acne can be hereditary, but all are capable of being controlled and even healed.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder in which you develop thick, white, silvery or red patches of skin due to skin cells growing too quickly. Normally your skin cells grow slowly and flake off and reproduce every few weeks. With psoriasis, however, your skin cells reproduce rapidly and surface every few days, causing thick patches to build up, commonly referred to as “plaque.” In many cases, psoriasis is handed down in families. Psoriasis is not contagious, so it cannot be spread by touch. Common home remedies to make psoriasis less annoying day to day include using different lotions, bathing and soaking, staying out of the sun and, sometimes, prescribed creams or medicines.

Eczema

Eczema is a condition that often can be hereditary. Eczema causes inflammation of the skin, making skin dry and itchy and sometimes cracked. It can appear anywhere on the body, and some of those affected have it over their entire body, though most outgrow it before adulthood. Certain genes present in families can cause extra-sensitive skin, typically resulting in issues like eczema. Those with a heavy cases of eczema may need prescribed medications, but most cases can be taken care of at home by using mild soaps and moisturizers, short, mildly warm showers and reducing stress along with using cortisone creams and hydrating oils.

Rosacea

Though rosacea typically affects those over 30, it can still be a hereditary condition. Rosacea causes redness on the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead, sometimes causing bumps and pimples. The skin may also burn or sting and have irritated or dry eyes. Lose-dose antibiotics and medicinal creams may be prescribed for rosacea, or sufferers can use products for sensitive skin, eye drops and sunscreen to relieve symptoms at home.

Acne

Those with parents who had severe acne are much more likely to develop acne than those whose parents did not. Acne is caused by oil and dead skin cells clogging pores, creating a variety of skin blemishes, including pimples, blackheads, cysts, and whiteheads. Some acne is so severe it must be treated with prescribed pills and creams, but most acne can be controlled with over-the-counter washes and treatments, as well as healthy skin practices.